Favorite Natural Constipation Home Remedies

Triphala powder is a specific Ayurvedic formulation composed of three dried fruits: amalaki, haritaki and bibhitaki. It is one of India's most valued and commonly utilized household herbs and supplements for constipated conditions.

Used on a daily basis to improve bowel regularity, triphala powder (also called triphala churna) is viewed as a tridoshic herbal formula, considered good for many different body constitutions.

Traditionally, about  ½-1 teaspoon is stirred into hot water and consumed as a steeped lukewarm tea-like liquid. Generally, it is recommended that you take triphala tea or tablets on an empty stomach first thing in the morning and/or an hour before bed for highest health benefits.

In Ayurveda, elimination mirrors the whole process of digestion and the condition of the stool is a valuable digestive health indicator. You want it not too loose, not too hard.... but a ripe banana-like consistency!

Eating fiber-rich foods that support regular bowel movements is a preventative approach to maintaining overall health and wellness of the body over the course of one's lifetime.

Sometimes we may need a little help in this department and psyllium is top on the list of natural constipation home remedies.

Psyllium husk powder added to water encourages a mild to strong laxative quality, depending on amount taken. It is best to start with a small dose of one teaspoon or less and build up to increased amounts over a few days if needed.

We recommend mixing psyllium powder into at least 8 ounces of water and allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes before consuming on an empty stomach. We would guard against using psyllium husk capsules or tablets as this hydrophilic (water-absorbing) seed can cause dehydration.

Aloe vera leaves contain a potent polysaccharide-rich gel which is a source of soluble dietary fiber.

Beneficial as a mild laxative, these components are soothing to the digestive tract, help to neutralize an overly acidic body pH, moisturize dry stool and have a cooling influence on inflamed conditions in the gastrointestinal region. (*)

We recommend trying fresh filleted gel from the large Aloe barbadensis leaves. These are becoming more popular in produce markets, can be purchased online or are an "easy to grow" garden variety if you happen to live in a tropical or arid climate zone.

Fresh aloe or a quality pure bottled aloe gel can be used in blended drinks, shakes or smoothies to encourage bowel regularity.

Dandelion root tea is probably one of the best-tasting herbal constipation home remedies because of its rich robust flavor similar to coffee. (ie: the reason it's often used as a coffee substitute.)

Dandelion roots and leaves are known as "digestive bitters" very useful as gentle mild laxatives that can be consumed for many days in a row. The root, prepared as a tea, is known for its liver-supporting cleansing properties that stimulate bile production helpful in the breakdown of dietary fats, toxins and waste products.

Use about one tablespoon of roots to one quart of hot water and simmer for 15 minutes. Adding a pinch of ginger and marshmallow root can bolster its constipation relief qualities.

There are other traditional herbal laxatives that have been used by herbalists throughout the ages.

This list of herbs includes:

• Senna
• Cascara Sagrada
• Rhubarb
• Cassia Pods

These herbs may be more appropriate for extreme circumstances, but shouldn't be used on a regular basis.